Starlite

All-in-one
Operating Instructions
1 Preparation ............................................... 7 6.2 Flash calculation for changed meas. times ...24
1.1 Battery ............................................................ 7 6.3 Multiple flash calculation ................................24
1.2 Self-test ........................................................... 7 6.4 Average value ................................................25
1.3 Selecting the function groups: 7 Taking a measuring outside the
DIP switches in the battery compartment ....... 8 measuring range display range ......... 26
2 Display panel ............................................ 9 7.1 Taking a measurem. outside the meas. range ..26
2.1 The display panel and its elements ................ 9 7.2 Taking a measurement
2.2 Display duration ............................................ 10 outside the display range ...............................26
2.3 Key Lock ....................................................... 10 8 Setting and measuring correction values
3 Operating elements ............................... 11 and extension factors ............................ 27
3.1 ISO ISO2; selecting the film speed ............ 11 8.1 Setting correction values ...............................27
3.2 Function .............................................. 12 9 CINE meter for cinematographers
3.3 Setting wheel ................................................ 12 PHOTOMETRY ........................................ 29
3.4 Measuring buttons and ...................... 12 9.1 Preselecting the Cine speeds ..................29
3.5 Measuring head with optical viewfinder 1 or 5 9.2 Taking measurements in the CINE function .29
Flat diffuser spherical diffuser ..................... 13 9.3 Setting the shutter angle ................................30
4 This is how the Starlite works ............... 14 10 Photometry ............................................. 31
4.1 Incident and reflected light measuring .......... 14 10.1 Selecting the photometric display unit ...........31
5 Meas. functions Ambient light ..... 16 10.2 Meas. the illumination Lux (lx)
5.1 Aperture priority ....................................... 16 or footcandle (fc) ............................................31
5.2 Exposure time priority ............................ 17 10.3 Measuring the luminance candela / m2 (cd/m2)
5.3 Exposure value EV ........................................ 17 or footLambert (fL) .........................................32
5.4 Contrast measuring 10.4 Measuring time-integral values
in the t and EV functions ............................... 18 (lxs, fcs, cds/m2, fLs) .....................................32
5.5 Averaging value AVR 11 Practical tips ........................................... 33
in the t and EV functions ............................... 19 12 Contrast and optimal exposure ............. 34
5.6 Selecting the exposure time values .............. 20
13 Technical data ........................................ 37
5.7 Taking measurements in the zone system ... 21
6 Measuring functions Flash light ... 23 14 Serial interface ........................................ 39
6.1 Flash light measuring .............................. 23 15 Service ..................................................... 39

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 Reflected light measuring 1
Reflected light measuring 5
Retractable diffuser
Incident light measuring,
flat diffuser

Diffuser ring Measuring head

for setting of with optical viewfinder
reflected/incident light measuring

Incident light measuring,

spherical diffuser

Display panel ISO button

Description
on page 9 ISO 2 button

Function buttons
Socket for
the flash sync cord

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 Optical viewfinder

Lens cover
Measuring button

Setting wheel

Measuring button Serial interface

Eyelet
for connection cord

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 Serial number

DIP switches

Battery
Battery
compartment cover

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Your Starlite is the top device in the GOSSEN-
product range and represents a real all-in-one light
meter. It combines a light meter for ambient and
flash light, a CINE meter for cinematographers as
well as a measuring instrument for lighting technol-
ogy and photometry. And the clarity of the operat-
ing control elements and the digital display is still
preserved. Functions used over and above the
normal metering can be individually integrated by
the user.
The Starlite can be easily converted into a com-
plete CINE meter for the cinematographer and
their needs.
Due to the microprocessor technology, the user
benefits from our knowledge on lighting technology
which we have gained over decades of experience
in the construction of light meters.
As a result of its precise calibration, the Starlite
provides very accurate measuring results and is
easy to operate.
Characterising of the Starlite:
Splashwaterproof housing
Digital stop display in 1/10 stop increments
Automatic display illumination
6 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik
Shutter speeds in full or 1/2 time values
Second ISO value
Incident light measuring
with spherical/flat diffuser
Reflected light measuring, option of 1 or 5
Flash measuring (cord/cordless)
Display of the ambient light portion
Flash calculation with different measuring times
Flash calculation for multiple flashes
Analogue contrast display
with f/stops in 1/2 stop increments
Averaging of up to 9 measuring values
Storage of settings and measuring values
Configurable EV correction
Measuring in accordance with the zone system.
Direct display of the measuring values on the
zone scale
Special CINE meter, settable for shutter angles
other than180 degrees, conversion
with formulas is not necessary
Funtional range of photometry
Measuring of illuminance
and luminance with ambient and flash light
Key lock
1 Preparation

1.1 Battery
The Starlite works with a 1.5 V AA battery As soon as the self-test is complete, the factory
(Alkaline-manganese or corresponding preset standard settings are activated.
rechargeable battery).
When the battery is running low, the display
ISO 100/21 0/1.0
appears in addition to the measured values as a
warning to the user. ISO2 50/18
At this stage, it is advisable to replace the battery f 5.6 t 1/125
as soon as possible. EV 12 Flash f 1/60
When appears on the display alone, f/s 24
measurements can no longer be taken.
Replace the battery immediately.
To replace the battery, open the battery compart-
ment of the Starlite, remove the old battery and
insert the new one. Observe the "+" and ""
polarity! Please close the cover of the battery
compartment.

1.2 Self-test
After the new battery has been inserted, the micro-
Warning!
computer will carry out a self-test. Here, every
Do not view and do not aim the meter
display segment of the display panel appears.
directly at the sun
The self-test takes about 10 s. It can, however,
You may not only damage your eye, but also ruin
be interrupted before by pressing any button.
the light-sensitive cell.

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1.3 Selecting the function groups:
DIP switches in the battery compartment
In addition to the standard functions, your Starlite
features a range of additional characteristics and
functions which can be selected using the
DIP 4
"DIP switches" in the battery compartment.
DIP 3
DIP 1 Selection STILL Photography
CINE and PHOTOMETRY DIP 2
DIP 2 Selection SHUTTER SPEEDS DIP 1
(1/1 or 1/2)
DIP 3 Selection DISPLAY UNIT photometry
DIP 4 Selection Measuring function ZONES

Zone System 4
fc fL 3 lx cd/m2
1/2 t-Steps 2 1/1 t-Steps
CINE 1 STILL

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2 Display panel 14 Analogue scale
15 Left digital displays for
2.1 The display panel and its elements f-stop (f)
1 Function Exposure value (EV)
Ambient light Correction values
Flash light Multiple flash calculation
2 Measuring head Average (f) Number of measurings
Incident light measuring Zone
Reflected light measuring Ready for flash (F)
3 Meter functions Photometric measuring values
6 1 7 2 13 3 8 4 9 5 10
Photography
Cine / Photometry
4 Film speed ISO ISO2
5 Digital display of the film speed
6 Display signal f EV
7 Display signal Zone
8 Display Function correction value
9 Display signal t f/s
10 Battery check warning signal 14 12 15 12 16 17 18 11
11 Display signal seconds (s) minutes (m) 16 Right digital display for
12 Display signal average Exposure time (t)
AVR and M (memory) Extension factor correction value
13 Display signal photometry Flash calculation, number of flashes
Illuminance (lx fc) Cine speeds (f/s)
Luminance (cd/m2 fL) 17 Zone scale
Time integral values 18 Aperture scale
(lx*s fc*s cd/m2 *s fL*s)

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2.1.1 Automatic display illumination
When the lighting conditions are poor (about EV 4
or less), the background lighting of the display is
switched on automatically for 10 seconds.
2.2 Display duration
If the Starlite display panel is idle for about 2
minutes, it is switched off automatically.
The measuring values and the preset values
remain stored in memory.
By pressing anyone of the buttons, you can
recall the measuring value from the memory.
By pressing the measuring button , a new
measurement is taken.
The measuring values of the last measurement
remain stored in the memory until a new measure-
ment is taken.
The Starlite has separate memories for
ambient and flash light measuring.
10
2.3 Key Lock
It makes sense to activate the key lock to avoid
switching on the Starlite by accident.
Activating the key lock: press
ISO and ISO2 simultaneously.
OFF, ISO and ISO2 appear for 3 seconds on
the display. Then the instrument switches off
automatically.
If you press any button, OFF, ISO and ISO2 are
displayed again for 3 seconds.
Deactivating the key lock:
press ISO and ISO2 simultaneously.
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3 Operating elements

3.1 ISO ISO2 If the film speed is changed, the last measuring
Selecting the film speed value is converted to the new ISO settings.
You can select two different film speeds with the The selected film speed is memorized until it is
ISO and ISO2 buttons. changed in accordance with the above mentioned
Select the film speed by pressing and holding procedure.
"ISO" or "ISO2". ISO or ISO2 will flash on the
display panel.
Set the desired ISO value using the setting
wheel.
When another operating function is selected,
the preset film speed is retained in the Starlite
memory.
The film speed you have selected, either ISO or
ISO2, appears in the top right corner of the display
panel (ISO2 as long as the ISO2 button is pres-
sed).
When the ISO2 button is pressed, the converted
shutter speed/f-stop values are displayed on the
basis of the last measuring. Therefore, you no
longer have to carry out time consuming calcula-
tions when working with 2 films of different speeds.

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3.2 Function
With the function buttons you can select the meas-
uring modes ambient light or flash light .
Keep the function button pressed and select the
sub-functions time preselection t, f-number pre-
selection f or exposure value EV using the setting
wheel. Function Buttons

3.3 Setting wheel

The setting wheel allows you to change values
and functions.
Presetting for ambient, flash and ISO
Calling up shutter speed/f-stop combinations
after measuring. Multiple flash calculation
Allocation of zones
Selection of shutter angles in the CINE function Button

Setting wheel
3.4 Measuring buttons and
With the measuring button you can trigger off
a new measurement and delete all previous Button
measuring values.
The measuring button is used for calculating
average values.

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3.5 Measuring head with optical viewfinder
1 or 5 Reflected light measuring 5
Flat diffuser spherical diffuser
The measuring head is the optical control center of Reflected light measuring 1
the Starlite. The 270 rotating measuring head
provides the basis for effective working in practice.

Caution:
Never try to overwind the built-in lock by force.
Sooner or later this will cause the connection
between measuring head and basic meter to
break and will have to be repaired!

The following measuring modes can be selected

using the diffuser ring at the measuring head :
Reflected light measuring 1, spot measuring
Reflected light measuring 5
Incident light measuring, flat diffuser
Incident light measuring, spherical diffuser
The optical viewfinder with measuring angles of 1 Incident light measuring,
and 5 for reflected light measuring is also located flat diffuser Diffuser ring
in the measuring head. Due to these measuring
angles it is possible to precisely focus on even the
smallest spots in the subject. Incident light measuring,
The viewing field is about 12. spherical diffuser

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4 This is how the Starlite works
4.1 Incident and reflected light measuring
Your Starlite is designed for the enthusiastic
amateur as well as for professional use.
Its rotating measuring head is the optical "control
center", and the following measuring functions can
be set:
Incident light measuring, diffuser raised:
spherical measuring characteristics
Incident light measuring, diffuser lowered:
flat measuring characteristics
Reflected light measuring with 5 measuring
angle through the viewfinder
Reflected light measuring with 1 measuring
angle through the viewfinder
Thus, the meter can be conveniently used for all
measuring methods including the zone system.
4.1.1 Incident light Spherical diffuser
Set "diffuser raised" with the diffuser ring at the
measuring head. The symbol appears on the
display.
Taking measurements using the incident light
method in particular can produces perfectly
exposed shots. With the incident light mode, the
Starlite measures with its diffuser the incident light
14
from the subject towards the camera.
This guarantees that the tone quality of the picture
is equivalent to that of the subject.
This is especially important for very bright or dark
subjects. Even under very difficult photographing
conditions, as for example with subjects which
have a lot of contrast, the incident light measuring
method is a much more reliable way of producing
well-exposed and professional pictures.
4.1.2 Incident Flat diffuser
The lowered/retracted diffuser having a flat
characteristic is suitable for reproductions and
for taking measurements for special lighting tech-
nology and photometry.
For this function, the "diffuser lowered" with the
diffuser ring at the measuring head must be set.
Note!
When using the incident light mode with
the setting flat diffusor at the diffusor
ring, the display nevertheless will show the
symbol .
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4.1.3 Reflected light 1 Spot measuring
For this function, the setting ring at the base of the
diffuser must be set to the "Reflected light 1
symbol. The symbol appears on the display.
In the viewfinder, the measured area corresponds
to the inner, smaller circle.
Your Starlite offers reflected light measuring
with 1 (spot measuring) via the viewfinder in the
measuring head. When you look through the
viewfinder, you can measure using the measuring
buttons and from the camera towards the
object. This way, even the details of a subject can
be accurately measured and analysed through the
viewfinder. Now, only the light reflected from the
subject is detected.
When using the reflected light mode, the measur-
ing values always depend on the reflection of the
subject!
As a result of this, bright subjects are reproduced
darker and are therefore not properly exposed.
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If the exposure measurement is carried out in
accordance with the reflected light measuring
method, it is advantageous to use a grey chart
(18% diffuse reflection). Furthermore, you can
also be given the average values of up to 9 meas-
uring values. The different contrast measuring
values are displayed on the analogue aperture
scale. Subject contrast is measured with the
reflected light measuring method and displayed
by the Starlite on the analogue scale.
4.1.4 Reflected light 5
For this function, the "Reflected light measurement
5" must be set with the diffuser ring at the
measuring head.
The symbol appears on the display.
In the viewfinder, the measuring area corresponds
to the outer, wider circle.
The functions and notes of chapter 4.1.3, page 15
also apply here.
15
5 Measuring functions Ambient light
Select with the left function button ambient Note:
light (the last stored measuring value When preselecting f-stop, the stored values
appears in the display). of the last measurement are displayed in 1/10 stop
Keep the function button pressed down and increments. These are, however, irrelevant, since
select the corresponding sub-function using a new reading has to be taken.
the setting wheel. This function is displayed
in a frame .
Set the desired value using the setting wheel
alone.

5.1 Aperture priority

Press the measuring button to take a
measurement.
The measured exposure time appears on
the right digital display. The f-number is auto-
matically adjusted to the time measured in
1/10 stop increments. Furthermore, the
f-number, which is rounded to 1/2 stop
increments, is displayed as a mark on the
analogue scale.
Other shutter speed/f-stop combinations
can be selected using the setting wheel.

16 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik

5.2 Exposure time priority
Press the measuring button to take a
measurement.
The measured f/stop appears on the left digital
display (resolution in 1/10 stop increments) and
is marked on the analogue scale, rounded to
1/2 stop increments.
Select other paired f/stop-exposure time values
with the setting wheel.
Instead of the full exposure time values,
also 1/2 time values can be set by activating
DIP switch 2.
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5.3 Exposure value EV
Press the button to measure.
The measured exposure value EV
appears on the left digital display
(resolution in 1/10 stop increments) and
the f/stop is marked additionally on the
analogue scale rounded to 1/2 stops.
Select other paired f/stop-exposure time values
with the setting wheel.
17
5.4 Contrast measuring
in the t and EV functions
Contrast of the subject Illumination contrast
Reflected light measuring with flat or spherical diffuser
through the viewfinder Keep the measuring button pressed to
Keep the measuring button pressed measure the different light sources.
and focus on the various areas of the subject to The first measuring value appears on the left
be measured. digital display. It is constanly displayed as a
The first measuring value appears on the left reference value (e.g. main light source) during
digital display. It is constantly displayed as a the course of the entire measuring process.
reference value (e.g. measurement on a grey The actual measuring value flashes on the
chart) during the course of the entire measuring analogue scale.
process. The actual measuring value flashes After you release the measuring button ,
on the analogue scale. the total illumination contrast measured
After releasing the measuring button , the appears on the analogue scale.
measured subject contrast range appears on
the analogue scale.

18 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik

5.5 Averaging value AVR in the t and EV functions
Reflected light measuring
through the viewfinder
The first measurement is to be taken with the
measuring button .
With the AVR measuring button you can
measure up to 8 further contrast spots.
The single measuring values are displayed on
the analogue scale (identical measuring values
are only displayed once, but are taken into
consideration when the average is calculated). Incident light with flat or spherical diffuser
After each measurement with , the average Correspondingly, you can determine the average
of all previous measuring values is displayed. value of the illumination of the various lights with
The average AVR appears on the left digital the above mentioned procedure. To do this, you
display: f or EV with f-numbers in 1/10 incre- can measure for example your main, fill-in and
ments and flashing on the analogue scale, background light individually in the studio.
rounded to 1/2 stop increments.
In the middle of the display, the number
of measurements M is displayed
(4 measurements in the example).

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5.6 Selecting the exposure time values
In addition to the standard full time values, also
half time values (1/2 TV) can be set at some cam-
eras. For this reason, the Starlite can also be set
additionally to half time values.
The selection is made activating the DIP 2 switch:
1/1 full time values
Exposure times are displayed in 1/1 full time DIP 2
values or when using the CINE function,
in the standard CINE film speeds.
1/2 half time values
Exposure times are displayed in 1/2 half time
values. With this function, additional
CINE speeds are displayed.

20 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik

5.7 Taking measurements in the zone system
This function is mainly used to cope with subject
contrasts in the field of black and white photo-
graphy.
In addition to the influence of illumination, there
is a further possibility of optimizing the contrast
range of film and paper.
The zone system allows details to be reproduced
in the picture which otherwise would not be visible
and would be lost. A detailed analysis of this
technique would, however, go beyond the scope
of these instructions.
5.7.1 The Starlite and the zone system
The Starlite allocates different brightness ranges
to predefined graduated zones of grey.
Variations of these grey tones from the middle
zone determine the exposure correction and the
changes in the development process, which are to
be applied correspondingly.
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Taking measurements in the zone system
For using the zone system activate the switch
DIP 4 in the battery compartment.
Set the diffusor ring at the mesuring head to the
reflected light 1.
Keep the left function button pressed and select
the sub-function ZONE using the setting wheel.
Using the viewfinder, focus on the darkest spot
of the subject, which should still be shown up in
the negative.
Press the measuring button . The meas. value
will then be automatically allocated to zone V.
Using the setting wheel, place the measuring
value in the zone where the darkest value
should be, e.g. zone III.
Now you can measure up to 8 further spots in
the subject using the measuring button
the most important brightest spot, which should
still show detail in the negative, must be
included.
21
After each measurement using the measuring but- If, by mistake, you take a zone measurement in
ton the following data are stored and displayed: the incident light mode (flat or spherical diffuser),
the symbol ZONE and the last measured value you are reminded by the flashing diffusor symbol
are displayed on the left that you have to set the diffuser ring to 1 spot
the number of measurements made are metering.
displayed on the right (4 measurements in the Note down the subject contrast for the film
example) development and adjust the development time in
accordance with the contrast range.
on the zone scale the currently measured
values are indicated (identical values only
once) and the average of the brightest and
the darkest spot as a flashing dot
When the measuring process is completed and
you then switch over to the function ambient light
and the desired measuring function, the value
measured in the zone V is displayed as shutter
speed/f-stop combination. Additionally, the flashing
ZONE symbol is displayed.
Now, you can select further shutter speed/f-stop
combinations using the setting wheel.

22 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik

6 Measuring functions Flash light
In essence, flash measuring can be carried out Trigger flash
in all diffuser settings (incident or reflected light When using a sync cord, the flash is triggered
measuring modes). Furthermore, flashes can be and measured automatically when pressing .
measured with or without a sync cord (cord/non- The measured f-number (sum of flash light and
cord). If a sync cord is used, the flash is automati- ambient light) appears both in the left digital
cally triggered and measured with the measuring display (resolution 1/10 stops) and as a flashing
button . indicator in the analogue scale rounded to the
nearest 1/2 f-number.
6.1 Flash light measuring In addition to this, the f-stop for the share of the
Select the function using the right ambient light is displayed on the analogue
function button (the last stored measuring scale, not flashing.
value appears).
The function is displayed with .
Set the desired measuring time (sync speed)
using the setting wheel. The measuring times
range from 1 s to 1/1000 s.
Press the measuring button . The Starlite
is ready to measure for about 45 s (as long as
F is displayed on the display panel).

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6.2 Flash calculation
for changed measuring times
If the measurement shows that the ambient light
part in relation to the flash light part does not
correspond to your wishes in the overall lighting,
the Starlite calculates on the basis of the meas-
urement taken the influence of altered measuring
times.
Other measuring times can be set directly using
the setting wheel without taking another measure-
ment. The calculation of the new result appears
directly on the display.
Note:
In the event of altered measuring times, you
must ensure that the flash light duration is not
longer than the preselected measuring time.
If this is the case, a new measurement must be
taken.
24
6.3 Multiple flash calculation
Occasionally, the light output from a single flash
may not be sufficient to enable you to work at the
aperture desired. In that case, you can preselect
the desired f-stop. Keep the right function button
depressed and select with the setting wheel the
sub-function . Release the function button and
select the desired f-stop.
The Starlite calculates on the basis of the
measurement already taken the number of flashes
required for the desired f-stop. The digital display
of the time disappears and the number of flashes
required is indicated, (e.g. F4 = 4 flashes)
The Starlite will calculate up to a max. of 9 flash
sequences.
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6.4 Average value
Take first measurement using measuring In the centre of the display, the number of
button measurements M taken is indicated (in the
Measure up to a further 8 flashes using the example 4 measurements).
average value measuring button .
The individual measurements are shown on
the analogue scale (identical values are only
displayed once, but are taken into account in
the calculation of the average value).
After each measurement with , the average
value of all previous measurements is always
displayed. The average value AVR is shown in
the digital display:
at the left with fine adjustment in 1/10 stop
increments and shown as a flashing mark
in the analogue scale, rounded to the nearest
1/2 f-stop. However, the ambient light portion
is not indicated.

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7 Taking a measuring outside the measuring range display range

7.1 Taking a measurement 7.2 Taking a measurement

outside the measuring range
There is no usable measuring result outside the
measuring range of the Starlite.
If it is too dark or too bright during the measure-
ment, Err (= Error) appears in the left digital
display.
outside the display range
If the symbol uu oder nn appears in the right or left
digital display, the measurement has been taken
but the result is outside the display range.
Use setting wheel to move into the display
range

26 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik

8 Setting and measuring correction values
and extension factors
8.1 Setting correction values
By simultaneously pressing both function
buttons ( and ) you reach the function
-correction values.
The last valid correction value appears in the
display.
The desired correction value can be entered or
altered using the setting wheel.
The extension factor is shown in the right digital
display, and the correction value is indicated in
stops. Input in 1/10 EV (small digits) in the range of
9.9 exposure value stop increments.
For correction values which extend the exposure a
"" appears in front of the number.
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Example:
3.1 stops correspond to the extension factor 8.6.
For corrections which shorten the exposure, only
the left display appears as EV difference in stop
increments. By pressing one of the function but-
tons ( or ) the correction value is stored in the
memory of the Starlite. The symbol appears
in the display.
The correction value is automatically taken into
account in all measuring functions (except for
the photometry).
27
8.1.1 Measuring correction values
Correction values can also be measured directly.
An evenly illuminated surface and constant light
level are required.
Use the Starlite in the reflected light mode at
1 or 5.
In the function , a reference measurement
can be taken by pressing the measuring button .
Designation rF - - in the digital display.
Then, hold the filter in front of the viewfinder and
press the measuring button .
The light reducing effect will be indicated automa-
tically in the display as EV stop and extension
factor.
28
8.1.2 Deleting correction values
In the function correction values (chapter 8.1,
page 27) you have two possibilities of deleting
pre-programmed correction values:
by manually resetting using the setting wheel to
EV 0 and extension factor 1.0 or
by pressing the measuring button
(display rF - -)
quit the correction value function using the
function button ( or )
Correction value is deleted.
Symbol has disappeared from the display.
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9 CINE meter for cinematographers PHOTOMETRY
By actuating the DIP 1 switch, the Starlite can be
converted easily and quickly into a fully functional
CINE meter. At the same time switch on the
function photometry.
CINE meter
Select reflected light or incident light mode at
the measuring head.
Using the left button, press function ambient
light .
9.2 Taking measurements in the CINE
function
Take a measurement by pressing the
measuring button
The measured f-stop appears both in the left
digital display (resolution 1/10 stop increments)
and as an indicator in the analogue aperture
scale rounded to the nearest 1/2 f-stop.

9.1 Preselecting the Cine speeds

Press and hold the left function button and
using the setting wheel set the speed f/s.
The function is shown in the display as .
Set the desired CINE speed using the setting
wheel.
Contrast (chapter 5.4, page 18) and average
value measurements (chapter 5.5, page 19)
can also be carried out.
Using the switch DIP 2 additional CINE speeds
can be switched on.

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9.3 Setting the shutter angle
The shutter angle in the Starlite is preset at the A shutter angle other than 180 has a direct
factory to 180. influence on all measuring functions in the CINE
If you are working with other angles which vary function; corrected measuring values are shown
from the shutter angle 180, you can enter these directly in the display.
directly. These angle correction values do not influence
Therefore, no need for lengthy calculation. the measuring results in the photometry func-
Simultaneously press both function buttons tion. Unlike in the photo functions, correction
( and ). entries cannot be made here.
The current angle appears in the right display.
Set the required angle in 5 stop increments
using the setting wheel.
By pressing a function button ( or ) you
move back into the measuring function.
The selected angle is shown in the display
with the symbol .

30 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik

10 Photometry
10.1 Selecting the photometric display unit
Use the DIP 1 switch to change over to the
functions CINE/Photometry. With the DIP 3 switch,
you can select either the standardized measuring
units or special ones used in certain English
speaking countries.
lx, cd/m2: the photometric incident measure-
ment values are displayed in the standardised
units (lx, lxs, cd/m2, cds/m2).
fc, FL: the photometric incident measurement
values are displayed in Anglican measuring
units (fc, fcs, fL, fLs). This means the values
do not have to be converted.
Press and hold the left function button
and select the sub-functions illumination or
luminance using the setting wheel.
Depending on the DIP 3 switch setting, lx or fc will
appear in the display.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik
10.2 Measuring the illumination
Lux (lx) or footcandle (fc)
Set the measuring head to incident light
measuring flat diffusor.
When setting the diffusor at the measuring
head to spherical, an error indication will
appear (flashing ).
Aim the measuring head in the direction
of the illumination source.
Take a measurment using the measuring
button .
31
10.3 Measuring the luminance candela / m2
(cd/m2) or footLambert (fL)
Set the measuring head to reflected light
measuring 1 or 5 . The luminance
function is set and shown in the display.
Focus on the subject to be measured via the
viewfinder
Take a measurement using the measuring
button
The selected display unit and measured
luminance are displayed.
32
10.4 Measuring time-integral values
(lxs, fcs, cds/m2, fLs)
Set measuring head to reflected light
or incident light measuring.
The corresponding display unit is set
and shown in the display.
Set with the right function button the
function flash light .
Pre-select the desired measuring time using
the setting wheel; this can be found on the right
hand side of the display panel. Activated half
time stop increments are also displayed.
Start flash measuring using the measuring but-
ton cord/noncord (chapter 6.1, page 23).
The measured value, which is calculated to
1 second, is shown in the pre-selected display
unit.
By preselecting the measuring time, the ambient
light part is correspondingly taken into account.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik
11 Practical tips
Pre-programming influence values
The Starlite determines precise exposure data in
accordance with DIN 19010. Should you not be
satisfied with your results, remember that there are
independent factors which can affect the success
of your shot:
For example:
The "true" speed of your film can differ from
that which is stated on the packaging.
The "true" shutter speeds of your camera can
be different from the speeds given.
The "true" apertures of your camera can differ
from those stated.
Differences can occur in the development of
your film and the pictures.
In addition, there are purely subjective aspects
and the question of personal taste in the evalua-
tion of finished pictures.
However, you can set your Starlite to the particu-
lar features of your camera, the brand of film, your
developing method and your subjective evaluation.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik
We recommend the following methods:
Take the reflected light and incident light measure-
ments of several normal subjects (grey chart and
color charts are extremely suitable for this) and
make a series of exposures using values given by
your Starlite for each of these on your film. The
first shot is exposed with the exposure data shown
by the Starlite. For the subsequent shots, these
exposure data are reduced and increased up to
one f-number depending on the raster of the lens.
The lighting conditions may not change during
these exposures.
From the developed pictures you choose the
optimal shots, based on your own personal taste,
and compare the data thereof with the measure-
ments. If its turns out that you prefer shots that
were made with an altered value, you can
programme this value into your Starlite via the
function correction value (chapter 8.1, page 27).
33
12 Contrast and optimal exposure
The basic rules for optimal exposure are that the
brightest areas on the color reversal film (slide) or
the darkest areas on the negative must be suffi-
ciently defined. Personal taste and intentions in
terms of artistic form can of course make these
rules null and void. For this reason, only general
recommendations on optional exposure can be
made.
In comparison to the human eye, film and paper
material can only process a small degree of con-
trast it is important that this fact be kept in mind.
With the Starlite you can determine illumination
contrast by way of the incident light measuring
method and subject contrast using the reflected
light measuring method. In both cases the ana-
logue display shows the contrast.
34
The proper exposure for your subject can not be
achieved if you measure the brightest and darkest
areas. These should be either a medium grey in
the subject or should form the average value from
the measurement results of the brightest and
darkest areas. The Starlite calculates the average
value for you automatically. If you discover that the
subject contrast is greater than can be processed
by your film, you can brighten up the shade, for
example with an umbrella or using a flash, which
will reduce the subject contrast. When considering
the subject contrast from an average value, the
following rules of thumb apply:
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik
Negative film
If the difference between important bright and dark
areas does not exceed two stops (EV) between
important bright and dark areas are not exceeded,
each value in between these values could be used
as the setting value; for greater demands the
average value is more suitable. In most cases,
you will achieve a reasonable shot. Rather dense
negatives produce poorer defined contours.
For negatives, the smallest density that can copy
is important - thus, you should use more exposure
rather than too little.
Color reversal film
In comparison to a negative film, a color reversal
film can deal with greater subject contrast, but
offers far less scope for usable exposure.
Measuring the subject contrast is the basis for the
decision as to whether the subject can be repro-
duced realistically. Unless the subject requires
something else, we recommend that the exposure
should be based on the highlights.
For color reversal films, the bright areas that are
crucial for the shot are important. Bear this in
mind, and use somewhat shorter rather than
longer exposure. This produces more brilliant and
richer colors.
GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik
Night atmosphere
If you wish to realistically capture the night atmos-
phere with a lot of dark and little detail, you must
use less exposure than your Starlite displays. This
will prevent your photo being similar to a daytime
shot. However, the Schwarzschild effect often has
the same effect as less exposure.
There are no set rules for this. In order to obtain
experience, take your first shots with unaltered
values that are given by the Starlite.
Schwarzschild effect
Shots with little light require particularly long
exposure times. For all brands of film, what is
known as the Schwarzschild effect occurs here:
The measured times must be increased for the
shot to avoid under-exposure. Various types of film
show the effect to different degrees.
This is why it is not taken into account in the
Starlite. In general, this effect does not occur for
exposures below 1/10 s.
35
Some types of color film come with special infor-
mation or notes with instructions for shots with
long exposure times. But the most up-to-date infor-
mation can always be directly obtained from the
film manufacturer. The Schwarzschild effect can
also lead to color alterations, which can then be
recitfied with a color correction.
In snow
For snow-covered landscape, the reflected light
measuring method will produce insufficient expo-
sure. Due to the particularly high degree of reflec-
tion of snow, important areas of the subject would
be under-exposed.
For measurement adjustment, use 1 to 1.5 EV
higher.
But the better solution is of course to use the
incident light measuring method, which produces
precisely the right measurement result. If you wish
to achieve particular effects, such as subtle shade
nuances in the snow, reduce your exposure by
approximately 1/2 stop.
With the Starlite you can obtain the precise and
suitable exposure data for every photographic
subject. Bear in mind that the film material may not
be able to cope with extraordinarily strong subject
contrasts.

36 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik

13 Technical data
Measuring capabilities Measuring range, at flash light (for ISO 100/21)
Incident light measuring Incident f/1.0 to f/128
(option of flat or spherical diffusor) Reflected 1 f/2.8 to f/128
Reflected light measuring, Reflected 5 f/1.4 to f/128
(measuring angle 1or 5, viewing field ca. 12) Measued value processing
Analogue and digital display digital
Contrast measuring Repeatability
Average value calculation 1 digit (= 0.1 EV)
(from up to 9 measuring values)
Flash light measuring (Cord/Noncord)
Display of ambient light portion Film speeds
Multiple flash calculation ISO 3/6 to ISO 8000/40 (in 1/3 steps)
Zone system
CINE Meter (preset shutter angle 180, Apertures
other angles adjustable in 5 steps)
f/0.5 to f/128
Photometry (illumination, luminance,
Shutter speeds
flash power and luminance)
Standard speeds: 1/8000 s to 60 min
Light sensor
adjustable additionally:
2 Sbc silicon photo diodes, color-corrected s: 1/6000, 1/3000, 1/1500, 1/750, 1/350,
Shortest measurement distance 1/180, 1/90, 1/45, 1/20, 1/10, 1/6, 1/3,
approx. 100 cm 1/0,7, 1.5, 3, 6, 10, 20. 45
Measuring range of ambient light (at ISO 100/21) m: 1.5, 3, 6, 10, 20, 45
Incident EV 2.5 to +18 Flash measuring times (sync speeds)
Reflected 1 EV 2.0 to +18 1 s to 1/1000 s
Reflected 5 EV 0 to +18

GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik 37

Flash calculation for altered measuring times Dimensions
1 s to 1/1000 s approx. 164 x 66 x 26 mm
Multiple flash calculation Weight without battery
up to 9 flashes approx. 195 g
CINE speeds Included accessories
Standard values: Case, strap, battery
8,12,16,18, 24, 25, 30, 32, 50, 64 Instruction manual
adjustable additionally: Brief operating instructions
2, 3, 4, 6, 36, 40, 48, 60, 72, 96, 120, 128, 150,
200, 240, 255, 300, 360 Operating temperature range
Other measuring ranges and display values in 10C to +50C
lx, fc, cd/m2, fL, lxs, fcs, cds/m2, fLs Storage temperature range
Other displays 20C to +60C
Meas. function, range over and range under Humidity
(for measuring and display), battery check IP class 54, water-splash resistant
Analogue scale
f/1.0 to f/128, zone 0 to X Illumination
Correction values/extension factors 0.5 to 199900 lx; 0.05 to 50000 fc
EV -9.9 to +9.9 / EF 1.0 to 955 Luminance
Key lock 0.2 to 30000 cd/m2; 0.05 to 9000 fL
Battery Flash illumination
1.5 V (AA) or a 1.2 V rechargable battery 2 to 30000 lxs; 0.2 to 3000 fc*s
Battery life Flash luminance
For over 5000 measurings with alkaline-man- 0.3 to 1800 cds/m2; 0.1 to 500 fLs
gan batteries, with an assumed flash
measurement proportion of 30 % and acti-
vated display illumination of 3 %

38 GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik

14 Serial interface Recommend books:
On the outside of the Starlite there is an integrated The Negative Anselm Adams
serial interface. The Zone System Hank Roelfsema
The Art of Photography Bruce Barnbaum
15 Service Beyond the Zone System Phil Davis
If repair or adjustment should ever become neces-
sary, please send your Starlite carefully packed to:
Bogen Photo Corp.
565 East Crescent Avenue
Ramsey, NJ 07446-0506
www.bogenphoto.com

GOSSEN Foto- und Lichtmetechnik 39

Printed in Germany Subject to change without notice 15080 2/6.01

Bogen Photo Corp.

565 East Crescent Avenue, Ramsey, NJ 07446-0506
Tel: (201) 818-9500
Fax: (201) 818-9177
email: lesb@bogenphoto.com
www.bogenphoto.com